Known for its towering rock formations that have stood for millions of years, Garden of The Gods in Colorado Springs has become a popular destination for hikers, rock climbers, and most recently, runners. With its breathtaking views and challenging terrain, the Garden of The Gods 10 Miler has become a must-do race for avid runners and fitness enthusiasts. Even for those who aren’t competitive runners, this race provides a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of Garden of The Gods. In this post, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide for anyone who wants to conquer this amazing race.
The Garden of The Gods 10 Miler is considered a challenging race, with some serious elevation gain and a few technical sections. You’ll need to be prepared to tackle these challenges. Ideally, you should start training at least 3-4 months ahead of race day. Train for endurance and strength with a mix of long runs, hill training, and strength work for your core and legs. Don’t forget to add in rest days and recovery to avoid injury.
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The course for the Garden of The Gods 10 Miler takes runners on a challenging 10-mile loop through the park. It’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the course before race day. You can download a map of the course from the race website or even head to the park and start running sections of the course yourself. This will provide you with valuable insights into the different terrains, inclines, and declines you’ll face.
Your gear and apparel choices are also important for this race. The terrain of the Garden of The Gods 10 Miler can be technical, so be sure to wear shoes with good grip to avoid slipping on rocks or uneven surfaces. Dress in layers, as the weather in Colorado Springs can be unpredictable. Lastly, stay hydrated by carrying a water bottle or hydration pack throughout the race, or stopping at the aid stations if necessary.
The Garden of The Gods 10 Miler may be a beautiful race with stunning views, but don’t get too caught up in the scenery and waste your energy. Try to keep a steady pace throughout the race and save your energy for the inclines and declines. Focus on your form and breathing, and take advantage of the aid stations for fuel and hydration.
Finally, remember why you signed up for this race: to challenge yourself and enjoy the beauty of Garden of The Gods. Take in the stunning views of the towering red rock formations and enjoy the sense of community among your fellow racers. Take pictures, connect with other racers and soak in the atmosphere.
The Garden of The Gods 10 Miler is a unique and challenging race that provides an opportunity to experience the beauty and natural wonder of one of the most beautiful parks in the US. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just beginning your fitness journey, this race is a great way to challenge yourself and explore a beautiful destination. With proper training, gear, and mindset, you can conquer the Garden of The Gods 10 Miler and come out of it with a sense of accomplishment and wonder.
